About CAT

The Center for Assistive Technology (CAT) was established within
the School of Health Related Professions in 1988. CAT conducts
applied research & development and client service programs in
Assistive Technology (AT) for persons with disabilities and the
elderly.

Research, Development, and Commercialization

Research, development, and
commercialization of advanced technologies and assistive
devices. The Center on KT4TT studies and applies the theory and
practice of Knowledge Translation to the knowledge outputs of
NIDILRR technology-grantees. This is expected to increase the use
of NIDRR grantee outputs by the various categories of knowledge
users, which is expected to result in increased beneficial impacts
for people with disabilities. The KT4TT is charged with
contributing to the following three NIDILRR grantee outcomes:

Improved understanding of barriers to accomplishing
KT for TT and carriers to overcome them.

Advanced knowledge of the best models, methods and
measures for accomplishing KT for TT.

Increased utilization of the validated best
practices for KT for TT by the NIDRR grantees.

Client Assessment and Training Services

Education
Programs for professionals, students and consumers. CAT
staff and affiliated faculty provide instruction on AT devices and
services conduct focus groups and beta-testing for multiple
manufacturers, and internships for graduate students.

Client Assessment & Training
Services in computer access for education and employment.
CAT's multi-disciplinary client service team provides AT assessment
and training services to People with Disabilities in the eight
counties of Western New York. They also receive referrals from
other regions when the client's needs are exceedingly complex.

Publications

Publications of information about AT
devices and services. CAT operates the Western New York Region's
Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities
(TRAID) program. This dissemination program works in partnership
with the WNY Independent Living Center to offer a model
demonstration house stocked with a wide range of AT devices.